Chapter 200: Go to Chicago City
In the days following, John was living in a blissful state. He had settled into a rhythm of carefree enjoyment, much to the chagrin of Queenie, who never missed an opportunity to scold him. John, ever the mischief-maker, would wink at her and teasingly ask, "Hey, my beautiful sister, why are you so cold in your cultivation today? Would you like me to help you?"
Each time he said this, Queenie's mind would inevitably wander back to that night when her usually composed demeanor had collapsed. She would end up flustered, quickly covering her embarrassment with playful anger, pinching John's ear in mock reproach. After enduring this routine for countless days, John's ears were practically impervious to her reprimands.
Meanwhile, John continued to teach his classes at Providence College. The students adored him, and his popularity seemed to grow with every passing week. Still, there was one matter that weighed on John's mind—Emily had yet to condense her vital energy. Cultivation, as he'd come to understand, was deeply tied to talent. Unfortunately, Emily didn't seem to have the aptitude for it, and no matter how hard she tried, her progress stagnated. John struggled with how to address it, fearing that offering too much encouragement might come across as pity. In the end, he decided to let her discover her own path, hoping she would gradually come to terms with the truth on her own.
As time went on, the day of the highly anticipated competition between the Kelvin family and the Welch family drew nearer. Marcia Kelvin, ever the pragmatic woman, approached John with a request. "Good niece, prepare yourself. We are going to Chicago."
John, never one for excessive fanfare, responded casually, "Don't worry. I'll be fine on my own this time. I've already informed Zoey Redman that I'll be visiting her family first when I arrive in Chicago."
During the past few months, Zoey's leg injury had improved significantly, and her need for frequent acupuncture sessions had lessened. She now only required treatments once a month. The Redman family had since returned to Chicago, and John had arranged to meet them there.
Marcia's brow furrowed in confusion. "You're going alone? Why not let me accompany you? The Kelvin family is in a delicate position right now, and I—"
John interrupted her with a dismissive wave. "Auntie, didn't you tell me that you and your father have been feuding for years? You've both been too stubborn to make amends. But when I go to Chicago and resolve this issue, your father will surely come to you and apologize. You won't even have to lift a finger."
Marcia's expression softened, and a trace of hope flickered in her eyes. "John, if only you could truly become my son-in-law..."
Two days later, John set off for Chicago in a way that surprised even the most seasoned travelers. Leaving New York State behind, he opted for a bike—a decision that confounded Zoey when she later heard of it. As John soared across the landscape, he marveled at the beauty of the great mountains and rivers beneath him. "Why bother with planes or high-speed trains when you can appreciate the country's landscapes on a bike? Isn't this a far more rewarding experience?" he mused to himself.
After several hours of uninterrupted travel, John arrived at the Redman family estate. Zoey and several other family members were waiting to greet him. Zoey, crutch in hand, smiled warmly as she saw John approach.